Marietas Sail, Snorkel and Beach

A Practical Look at the Marietas Sail, Snorkel, and Beach Tour

If you’re considering a day out on the water around Puerto Vallarta, the Marietas Sail, Snorkel, and Beach tour offers a mix of adventure and relaxation that many travelers find appealing. While it’s not a perfect fit for everyone, it does shine in areas like guided snorkeling and scenic sailing, especially for those who want a taste of both marine life and breathtaking landscapes.

What we love about this experience are two things: first, the expert guides who help you navigate the reefs and spot exotic bird species, and second, the delicious onboard meals and drinks that turn a boat trip into a true feast. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the overall rating is just 3.5 out of 5, with some guests disappointed by surprises like canceled reservations or boat size.

This tour suits travelers eager for a well-rounded day in nature, particularly those who enjoy snorkeling and sightseeing, with a flexible attitude towards occasional hiccups. If you’re looking for a self-contained adventure in Puerto Vallarta, this might fit the bill—just be sure to weigh the pros and cons before booking.

Key Points

• Snorkeling & Marine Life: Expect to see vibrant tropical fish, octopus, rays, seahorses, and turtles.
• Bird Watching: Over 100 bird species, making it a bird lover’s paradise.
• Scenic Views: Cliffs, coves, caves, and rock formations perfect for photography.
• Meal & Drinks Included: Continental breakfast, deli-style lunch, and a domestic open bar after water activities.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 7 travelers, promoting a more intimate environment.
• Weather Dependent: Tours may be canceled or rescheduled if weather is poor.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Overall Duration

The tour begins at the Paradise Village Public Pier in Nuevo Vallarta. It lasts about 7 hours, which provides enough time for water activities, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying the sailing experience. The return is straightforward, ending back at the same meeting point. Group size is capped at 7 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personal but may mean fewer social options if you’re used to larger groups.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Marietas Islands (Approx. 2 hours)

This tiny island group is a highlight. Known for its spectacular cliffs, coves, and caves, it offers a range of photo-worthy scenes. The islands are a UNESCO-protected ecological site, so access is controlled, and there’s a small admission fee (not included). Visitors often love just sitting back and taking in the views, or exploring the island’s secluded spots—if you’re lucky, you might glimpse the rare bird species that inhabit the area.

What you’ll do here:

• Snorkel in clear waters teeming with tropical fish and marine creatures like octopus and rays.
• Relax on one of the private beaches, enjoying the sun and sea breeze.
• Optional activities include paddleboarding, which many reviews praise as a fun addition.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

The snorkeling gear is well sanitized, and the crew is known for being attentive. Guests frequently mention the abundance of colorful fish and the chance to see larger marine animals like turtles and seahorses. One reviewer highlighted, “Lots of fish to see, hidden beach was amazing and the food was delicious,” emphasizing how the marine life and the scenery combine for a memorable experience.

Bird Watching and Nature

With over 100 bird species in the area, bird enthusiasts will be in heaven. The islands’ cliffs and caves are ideal vantage points for spotting seabirds and other feathered residents. This aspect adds an extra layer of interest beyond the underwater sights.

The Sailing Experience

The boat itself is described as smaller than larger tour boats, which many travelers appreciate for a more personal vibe. The crew’s hospitality, especially during the return trip, is often highlighted—entertainment and involvement of guests are common themes in reviews. Some have noted that the weekend trips can include whale sightings (from December 8th to March 15th), turning the journey into a potential wildlife extravaganza.

Food and Beverage

Included are continental breakfast and deli-style lunch, plus an open bar with alcoholic drinks available after water activities. Many guests rave about the quality of the food, citing it as excellent and adding to the overall value. This is a significant perk, especially since dining options on a boat can often be limited or basic elsewhere.

Costs and Additional Fees

The base price is $99 per person, which includes most water activities, the meals, and the boat ride. However, travelers should budget for additional costs such as the port tax (MX$35) and the conservation fee (MX$85) for the islands. The access to Love Beach is optional and controlled by the marine park, but it’s not included in the base price.

Practical Considerations

• Transportation to the marina is not included, so plan for a taxi or other transport.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers but check for mobility issues if you plan to sit on sandy beaches or climb rocks.
• Weather conditions can affect the trip, with cancellations possible in poor weather, so flexibility is wise.
• The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere but means booking in advance is recommended.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

The reviews give a balanced view. One traveler raved, “Staff was great and attentive. Really enjoyed the beach time and kayaking,” emphasizing the value of the personalized service. Conversely, a few were disappointed, such as one who said, “The actual boat operators had no registry of our reservation,” highlighting that booking with care is important.

Another pointed out the smaller boat size as a plus, appreciating the intimacy, though some felt the snorkeling could be better. Yet overall, many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, the vibrant wildlife, and the delicious food, making it clear this tour offers more than just a boat ride.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a mix of marine activities and scenic sightseeing. If you love snorkeling, bird watching, and tranquil beaches, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer an intimate group setting rather than large tour buses.

However, if you’re highly particular about reservations or prefer more structured, guided tours with guaranteed wildlife sightings, you might want to explore other options or confirm bookings thoroughly.

Final Thoughts

The Marietas Sail, Snorkel, and Beach tour offers a value-packed day of natural beauty, with opportunities to see marine life, seabirds, and stunning rock formations. The inclusion of a delicious meal and open bar elevates the experience beyond just a boat trip. Its small-group atmosphere and personalized service appeal to travelers who enjoy a relaxed, authentic encounter with nature.

While some reviews mention cancellations and logistical hurdles, many guests leave with memories of spectacular vistas, colorful fish, and dolphin and whale sightings (season permitting). If you’re looking for a balanced tour that combines activity with leisure and offers a chance to relax on a private beach, this tour could be a good fit.

In short, this trip is ideal for nature lovers, snorkelers, and photographers eager to capture moments that will stay with them long after they leave Puerto Vallarta. Just be sure to book with a flexible mindset and a readiness to enjoy whatever surprises the sea might bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, transportation to and from the marina is not included, so plan to arrange your own transport to the starting point.

What is the duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time for water activities, beach relaxation, and sailing.

How many people are on each tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, providing an intimate setting.

Are meals included?
Yes, a continental breakfast and deli-style lunch are provided, along with an open bar for drinks after water activities.

What additional fees should I expect?
Guests should budget for a port tax of MX$35 and a conservation fee of MX$85. Access to Love Beach is optional and not included.

Can I snorkel without experience?
Snorkeling gear is well sanitized and provided, making it suitable for most skill levels. Guides are experienced and helpful.

Is whale watching possible?
Yes, from December 8th to March 15th, whale sightings are possible and have been noted by travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and waterproof camera or phone protection. Swimsuits are recommended for water activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check for mobility issues given the sandy beaches and rocky areas.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Marietas Sail, Snorkel, and Beach tour offers a well-rounded taste of Puerto Vallarta’s marine and natural wonders. Its highlights—like vibrant snorkeling, scenic vistas, and delicious onboard meals—make it worth considering for travelers eager to enjoy the sea in a small-group setting. Just remember to plan ahead, keep expectations flexible, and prepare for a day filled with stunning views and memorable wildlife encounters.